Thomson was commended by judges for her work in representing young tenants voices and for promoting real change.

Despite living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a rare condition that impacts the functionality of the nervous system, Thomson has maintained a strong role in Waverley Housing’s Tenant Review Team and in the community of Hawick as a whole. 

Having joined the relaunched Tenant Review Team in 2024, Thompson has been present at all meetings, been present throughout the Scottish Borders for property inspection and has championed LGBTQ+ rights, disability rights, neurodiversity, inclusion and domestic violence prevention.

Thomson was also a key contributor towards the establishment of the tenant group, Also My Stonefield. The group works to enhance the local area, operating together with housing associations and residents. 

Thomson said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to have been the first recipient of this new award. I still can’t quite believe it! I’m looking forward to continuing my work with Waverley Housing as part of the Tenant Review Team and to being more involved on a national level with TPAS helping to dive forward youth participation.”

Barry Lees, depute chief executive at Waverley Housing, said: “In Tanya we have found a strong passion and drive to make positive change for our tenants. She brings valuable insight and a fresh perspective that helps us to understand the needs and experiences of our younger tenants.”